Question 1

What is the Emotion Thermometer and how does it work?

Accepted Answer

The Emotion Thermometer is a visual tool that helps children identify and communicate their emotional state using four color-coded levels: Green (I feel good - calm and happy), Yellow (A bit tense - something bothers me but still managing), Orange (Rising - feeling like it's going to explode, body is tense), and Red (Explosion - not in control, screaming, crying, need help NOW).

Question 2

When should I use the Emotion Thermometer with my child?

Accepted Answer

You can use the Emotion Thermometer at three key times: before an activity by asking 'What color are you at?', when you notice emotions rising by asking them to 'Show me your color', and in the evening by reflecting 'What color were you at today?' This helps create awareness and communication about emotional states.

Question 3

What are the 'I need...' cards and how do they help?

Accepted Answer

The 'I need...' cards are communication tools that children can show when words don't come easily. They include options like QUIET (I need calm), HUG (I need a hug), MOVE (I need to let off steam), BREAK (I need a break), HELP (I need help), and TIME (I need more time). These cards help children express their needs non-verbally.

Question 4

How should I prepare and use the printable Emotion Thermometer?

Accepted Answer

Print the Emotion Thermometer and laminate it for durability. You can hang it on the fridge or another visible location. Cut out the mini-cards along the dotted lines and laminate each card separately. This creates a portable and reusable emotional regulation tool for your child.

Question 5

What does each color level mean on the Emotion Thermometer?

Accepted Answer

Each color represents a different emotional intensity: Green means 'I feel good' - everything is fine, calm, relaxed, and happy. Yellow means 'A bit tense' - something bothers me but I'm still managing. Orange means 'Rising' - I feel like it's going to explode, my body is tense, I need help before it overflows. Red means 'Explosion' - I'm not in control anymore, screaming, crying, hitting, and need help NOW.

Question 6

Who can benefit from using the Emotion Thermometer?

Accepted Answer

The Emotion Thermometer is particularly beneficial for hypersensitive children who may struggle with emotional regulation and communication. It's designed as a training tool for managing emotions and can help children, parents, and caregivers better understand and respond to emotional states before they escalate.

🌡️ My Emotion Thermometer

✂️ Mini-Cards to Cut Out

🗣️ "I need..." Cards

🌡️ My Thermometer